After the final round of talks with the state transport officials and an independent meeting of the union leaders of commercial transport vehicles, it was decided that an indefinite strike would start from Tuesday midnight.
“During the day, first we held a round of talks with state transport officials discussing our stand on the issue of speed governors. The officials, after meeting us, were to brief their higher-ups in the government,” said Prakash Gavali from Maharashtra Rajya Truck Tempo Tankers Bus Vahatuk Mahasangh.
A final outcome on the state’s stand over the ongoing issue was expected on Monday, but the officials informed the union leaders that they would be in a position to let them know about the final decision only by Tuesday afternoon.
“As no decision has been taken by the authorities, in our meeting at Vashi on Monday evening, we resolved to go ahead with our protest,” added Mr Gavali. However, if the government officials succumb to the pressure of the transporters unions on Tuesday afternoon, it is likely that the strike will be called off by Tuesday itself.
Irfan Bhiwandiwala, a transporter’s union leader added, “We will allow vehicles carrying milk, vegetables and medicines to conduct their usual business.”
Harsh Kotak, representing School Busowners’ Association, however, said, “We have decided that we will give two days notice to educational institutions and from Friday midnight, we will join the agitation.” The transporters have been opposing the decision to install speed governors inside their vehicles. They claim that installation of the device will drastically increase transportation time, thereby affecting their revenue. They maintained that it could also result in hike in transportation charges.